Leadership Institute, the Center for Community Service, Academic Outreach, and the School of Applied Studies

Benton Hall, named for benefactor Otis L. Benton, opened in 1923. Originally a dormitory, Benton Hall was renovated several times and is now where you’ll find the Leadership Institute, the Center for Community Service, Academic Outreach, and the School of Applied Studies, which includes four departments and awards about 40 percent of all undergraduate degrees at Washburn. Its medical sonography program is among the nation's largest. Trivia: Benton Hall has been housing for women, men and during World War II it housed military trainees.

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What's an Ichabod?

Washburn's mascot, the Ichabod, honors the school's early benefactor, Ichabod Washburn, a 19th century Massachusetts industrialist. The original design of the studious-looking, tuxedo-clad figure was created in 1938 by Bradbury Thompson (ba '34), who became an internationally acclaimed graphic artist. Design wasn't Thompson's only consideration. To the stylized Ichabod the artist attributed the qualities of "...courage and enthusiasm, as shown by his brisk walk. He is democratic and courteous, for he tips his hat as he passes. Sincere in his search for truth and knowledge, he studiously carries a book under his arm..."